Pros & cons
PROS
- Striking granite tor summit with a short, easy scramble to the true top
- Vast, wild plateau views and real solitude
CONS
- Very long approach on estate tracks and remote terrain
- Fully exposed to weather with no facilities
Overview
Leabaidh an Daimh Bhuidhe is the granite-tor high point of Ben Avon, one of the Cairngorms’ most easterly Munros at 1,171 m. It’s all about big skies, a tor-studded plateau, and that distinctive summit block that makes this hill feel different from the rest.
What You’ll See
Expect an expansive, high granite plateau littered with tors, with the true summit perched atop Leabaidh an Daimh Bhuidhe’s dramatic tor. On a clear day the views sweep across Deeside, the wider Cairngorms, and the Aberdeenshire moorlands.
Routes & Effort
This is a full mountain day. Common approaches are from Linn of Quoich, Tomintoul, or Inchrory, often 25–30 km round-trip depending on your start. Many walkers pair it with Beinn a’ Bhùird for a big double-Munro outing. Long estate tracks at the start make a bike a savvy choice to save time and feet.
Difficulty & Safety
The walking is not technical, but the plateau is exposed and navigation can be tricky in mist—bring map, compass, and/or GPS and know how to use them. The summit tor needs a short, easy scramble to touch the highest rock; you can still enjoy the panorama from below if you’d rather not scramble. In winter, expect snow and ice—crampons and an axe are often required—and check avalanche reports for the Northern Cairngorms before committing.
Wildlife
Keep an eye out for ptarmigan among the rocks, mountain hares, and red deer on the flanks. With luck, you might see a golden eagle soaring the thermals above the plateau.
Best Time to Visit
Pick a clear, calm day—this hill shines when the horizon goes on forever. Summer’s longer daylight makes the big mileage more manageable. You’ll see more people on fine weekends; go midweek for quieter tors. In midge season, the lower approaches can be buggy when the wind drops. Winter is beautiful but serious—plan accordingly.
On-the-ground Logistics
There are no amenities anywhere near the summit—no shelter, toilets, or signage—so be fully self-sufficient. Some start from the Invercauld/Linn of Quoich side where the car park has a toilet and a small fee. Carry all food and water, and pack for fast-changing mountain weather.
Where it is
57.0994, -3.4344Tips for Leabaidh an Daimh Bhuidhe
- 01Bring a bike to speed up the long estate tracks on the approach.
- 02Start early—many routes run 25–30 km and the plateau is committing.
- 03In winter, carry crampons and an ice axe and know how to use them.
- 04The summit tor involves a short, easy scramble; fine views even if you skip it.
- 05From the Invercauld/Linn of Quoich side, expect a small car park fee and a single toilet.
Amenities
Near Leabaidh an Daimh Bhuidhe
All places →All trails →
2.7 mi awayBeinn a' Bhùird North TopRemote high plateau with big corrie views and real solitude
2.7 mi awayBeinn a' Bhùird South TopRemote plateau top with huge views and solitudeScenic Viewpoint
5 mi awayCreag MhorRemote granite‑tor summit above wild Loch Avon views
5 mi awayCàrn na DrochaideRemote Cairngorms summit for solitude and big-sky wildness
6.6 mi awayMorrone CircularBraemar’s backyard Corbett with big views and a mellow riverside returnModerate · 7.5 mi · 4 hr
6.6 mi awayCreag Choinnich, BraemarShort, steep village summit with big views over BraemarEasy · 2 mi · 1.3 hr
6.6 mi awayBraemar Riverside WalkGentle loop by the Dee and Clunie through birch woodsEasy · 2.5 mi · 1.5 hr
6.6 mi awayBraemar Castle CircularA heritage loop around a turreted castle with Dee valley views.Easy · 4.3 mi · 2.5 hr
